Anita Abbott

The board conducted a public budget hearing to review the proposed 2026-2027 school budget. An organizational meeting was held to elect officers, designate official depositories, appoint legal counsel, external auditors, and various coordinators, and authorize signatories for financial and official reports. The board received reports from the Head of School and committee chairs. Key actions included approving a change in the number of directors, evaluating the Head of School, and authorizing final budget amendments for the 2025-2026 year alongside the adoption of the original budget for the 2026-2027 school year.

The board meeting included reports from the Head of School and various committee chairs. Key actions taken included the approval of an employment contract for a new Head of School and the adoption of several resolutions concerning board policies, a GTB grant submission, the 2026-27 regular meeting schedule, and the 2026-27 academic calendar. Additionally, the board approved a draft lease agreement with the Benzie Leelanau District Health Department and engaged in a discussion regarding the preliminary budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.

The board meeting was a working retreat involving representatives from the Leelanau Montessori Forever Foundation and school staff. Key topics included a board self-assessment review and discussion, a board committee discussion, and planning sessions regarding roles and responsibilities for the upcoming year.

The board received the head of school report, committee updates from the finance and governance committees, and an update regarding LMFF campaigns. Key actions included approving appointments to the head of school committee, passing the fiscal year 2026 budget amendment, and approving a resolution to increase the number of board members. Additionally, the board recommended two new individuals for board director positions and addressed public comments regarding school communication and the interest in establishing a middle school.

The board meeting focused on several key items including reports from the finance, governance, and Head of School (HOS) hiring committees. The board conducted an interview for the Head of School position and authorized negotiations for the salary and contract with the recommended candidate. Additionally, the board approved a contract with HR Charter Consulting, LLC, and heard public comments regarding the HOS hiring process, budget transparency, and future school expansion plans.